Category: Elderberry

According to a 2020 study, roughly 60% of elderberry supplements tested were adulterated or not a true *Sambucus nigra* extract, highlighting a significant quality control issue within the industry. This statistic underscores why a key consideration when shopping for elderberry supplements must be the product's quality, which includes proper sourcing, manufacturing, and verification.

Approximately 2,500 years ago, the Greek physician Hippocrates referred to the elder tree as his "medicine chest". This long history of use highlights the plant's value, and today, understanding the correct steeping time is the key to extracting its full flavor and powerful compounds from loose leaf berries.

Scientific research has confirmed that raw elderberries contain toxic cyanogenic glycosides, but proper heat treatment significantly reduces these compounds. So, does cooking elderberries remove cyanide and make them safe to eat? The answer is a clear yes, and understanding the proper cooking techniques is crucial for safe consumption.

Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician, referred to the elderberry tree as his "medicine chest" around 400 BC due to its varied uses. Understanding what is the difference between blue elderberries and black elderberries is crucial for both foragers and health enthusiasts, as these fruits, while similar in many aspects, have distinct characteristics.